Today we hear from a reader named Kelsey who writes with a concern about her pal, who just found out that she's having an (unplanned baby). Kelsey and her pal have heard all the horror stories about pregnancy and childbirth, and now she's looking for some encouragement. What's so great about pregnancy? Let me share a few things ...

"I was searching through pregnancy blogs, and I desperately need positive things to talk to my best friend about about the baby she is going to have in, err, 8 months," writes Vitamin G reader Kelsey K. "I found lots of things that new moms didn't know about before pregnancy, and lots of things that freaked out pregnant women, but I need some things that you were dreading that turned out to not be so bad, or things that made the whole thing seem like something you could handle. [My friend] was not planning to have this baby, but she and her fiance are committed to each other and will absolutely be fine. I just need to help her move beyond the bummer that she can't afford a wedding now and help her embrace this baby. HELP. PLEASE."

How sweet of you to be concerned for your pal! Pregnancy is a shock no matter if it's planned or not, so I can only imagine the adjustment period your friend is going through. And, my dear, you are so right when you say that there is a wealth of scary information out there about pregnancy and impending motherhood and very little positive. So you've inspired me to tackle the positive today (did I mention that I'm 27 weeks pregnant myself?) Tell your friend to read this:

*Your body changes, yes, but you can get it back: This is my third pregnancy, and I know all too well how things can change during and after pregnancy. But, it's not the end of the world. You can lose the weight, tone up--and it's sort of fun, too. After my second baby, I discovered running, for instance, and got to the healthiest weight and fitness level of my life.

*Childbirth is beautiful and exciting (like, adrenaline-pumping exciting!). And, whether you choose to get an epidural or not, it's great to know that there's plenty of pain management options for you these days. There's nothing to fear about it, promise.

Pregnancy can make you feel strong, vibrant and powerful: Don't believe me? Just think about the strength of your body--to create another human being. It's the most incredible thing your body can do. Allow yourself to marvel at the strength of your bod.

There's nothing more amazing than feeling a baby flutter and kick in your belly: Seriously, this is perhaps the coolest sensation--ever.

You get to indulge in some pretty random and fun cravings: Sure, you may have some nausea in the beginning, but when you're past that, get ready to enjoy the world with a new set of taste buds. Never will pepperoncinis, ice cream, chocolate--or whatever weird thing you're craving--taste so good. I swear that our senses are heightened during pregnancy, causing the effect. But who knows the underlying biological reasons.

*__There's no perfect time to become a mother, but if yours is now, embrace it for all it is: __*Motherhood isn't meant for everyone, but if you're bummed out that this is a horrible time to have a baby, try not to dwell on those feelings too much. I'm the first to admit that motherhood is tough and messy and time-consuming, but psst: It might always be this way. Kids do cramp your style a bit (just being honest), but they also come with amazing happiness benefits that I can't even put into words. They're not always convenient, these little buggers, but they can change your life in unexpectedly wonderful ways.

Hugs to you, Kelsey, and your pal. Wishing her the very best in her pregnancy and new motherhood.

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Readers, do you have positive things to add about pregnancy/motherhood? Let's try to cheer her up a bit! __